San Francisco - January 30, 2007

Choc and Awe

Michael Mischer Chocolates

Romance isn’t dead.

It’s just unconscious. Here’s how to resuscitate:

1. Follow the cocoa scent to Michael Mischer Chocolates in Oakland, a neighborhood shop where Mischer makes truffles, chocolate bars, and cookies.

2. Let good romance karma rub off on you. Mischer’s wife inspired many of the chocolate bars, including the insane cayenne mango. Together, they hand-decorate the heart-shaped boxes. (Aw, cute.)

3. Customize a six-, twelve-, or sixteen-piece box with up to eighteen flavors (like champagne, hot chipotle, calvados, and honey lavender).

4. Take home extra bars for the all-occasion stash.

5. Share with your valentine.

Note: For best results, repeat continuously throughout the year.

Michael Mischer Chocolates, 3352 Grand Avenue, at Elmwood Avenue, Oakland (510-986-1822 or michaelmischerchocolates.com). Available for Valentine’s Day special order at Fog City News, 455 Market Street, between Fremont and First Streets (415-543–7400).